Once again, another year has flown by, with all of the many ups and downs offered by life. RAGOM has helped bring about new beginnings for over 200 dogs this year, and yet, at a time when we all have plenty to do and not enough time nor money to do it all, one special dog has arrived, offering us a chance to remember what the season is truly about.

Bowser is one of those very special boys with more than the normal amount of health problems. He is an overweight senior, has seizures, is heartworm positive, and has urinary problems. That's on top of needing to be neutered and vaccinated! The good news is that all of those problems can be treated. The bad news is that it costs money to help him…much more than we usually spend on one dog.

People who are involved with breed rescue or an animal shelter often have to make tough decisions. Of course we would like to save them all, but there's always that little detail: money. We can spend $1000 on one animal or spend $250 on four other animals. Which is fair, which is right? How can we pick who benefits from the funds? How can we decide who "deserves" the help? We do not want to have to make such decisions, but there is only so much in the bank, and that is the painful truth.

Bowser has a lot to offer this world. He is very sweet and has the beginnings of a white face. He tolerates all the veterinary poking and prodding with dignity. He also offers us a chance to re-evaluate our priorities during the giving season. He is offering us a reminder that we can spend our money on more unneeded things, such as soaps and lotions for grandma, ties for dad, more plastic toys for the kids, or we can invest in the future of this special boy.

RAGOM volunteers are accustomed to generously giving both their time and money. We give and give, but ultimately learn that we are the ones who receive the best gift of all, the love of these incredible dogs. Bowser must have a guardian angel looking out for him, because his foster home fell in love with him. Overnight, she became a successful fundraiser. Even the vet who saw Bowser is donating some money to be used on his treatment (and that's above and beyond the RAGOM discount!). We have raised some of the funds needed to save him, but we need more.

Money is power. Maybe an ugly statement, but true, nonetheless. It is power because it gives us choices. How will you use that power? How will you choose to spend your money? Please consider helping Bowser get a second chance at life. Even a little bit makes a difference, especially if many people can give a little bit. You may find that it benefits not only a needy dog, but yourself as well. If you can find it in your heart and pocketbook to give some financial assistance to the Bowser Fund, you may be blessed with the best present of the season - knowing that you made a difference and helped to save a life.

"As you give, so shall you receive….." Isn't that what it's all about?

Donations to the Bowser Fund should be mailed to:

RAGOM Attn: Bowser Fund
P.O. Box 5567
Hopkins, MN 55343-0492